Growing Children

I have recently been able to substitute teach two of the classes that I worked with for extended periods last year when their teachers were on medical leaves. Now second and first graders, it was interesting to see how they have all matured and it was really great to enter the room knowing most of their names.

Those who hadn't been able to contain their wiggles long enough to form and stay in a line can now now do so quite efficiently. Likewise, they are all more adept at quieting down when signalled, following directions, and transitioning through daily procedures and activities. While these skills seem extremely peripheral to learning, I assure you that very little learning takes place without them in place because chaos invariably interferes.

Most gratifying to me was the fact that, aside from the new students who had moved into the district, I was greeted in both classrooms as more than a substitute. The kids remembered me and still seemed to value our previous relationship, which allowed us to move through the day as a team. I loved seeing how each had blossomed.

The few who had behavioral challenges showed much more awareness and self-control. I could almost see the wheels turning as they negotiated with themselves over how to handle situations that arose. I also gloried in a couple little ones who were now reading fluently and able to keep up with their peers in whole group work. It was obvious that they were proud of themselves, as well.

The teachers in this district have done a great job with the kids. I'm glad I was able to be part of their lives for a little while and it is certainly good to check in with them again.